Colombia: New Government Pushes to Restore Economic Ties with Israel

Bogotá — Colombia’s new government has begun steps to restore economic and trade relations with Israel, announcing plans for an economic panel and a bilateral economic commission aimed at expanding investment, technology, digital innovation and Colombian capabilities.
According to an official statement, the government unveiled an economic-panel initiative designed to “open new doors for investment, technology, innovation and Colombian capacities.” An anticipated official visit will focus on boosting cooperation in trade, innovation, digital technologies and investment, under the newly established Colombia–Israel bilateral economic commission.
Background: Under former President Gustavo Petro, Colombia severed diplomatic relations with Israel in May 2024 after months of tensions; Petro said he could not maintain relations with what he called a “genocidal government.” Bogotá also intervened in a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) brought by South Africa against Israel, a move backed by several other states.
International legal context: The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports that since the start of Israel’s offensive in October 2023, more than 73,300 Palestinians have been killed and over 174,200 injured; despite a ceasefire on 10 October 2025, subsequent attacks have reportedly killed at least 1,250 Palestinians and injured another 4,110.
Recent statements: President Gustavo de la Espriella, who was sworn in on Friday in the southwestern city of Cali, had said last month that his administration would fully restore diplomatic and economic relations with Israel after taking office and withdraw Colombia’s intervention in the ICJ case. Vice President Restrepo said Colombian officials met on Friday with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and an Israeli delegation, calling the talks the start of a new phase in bilateral relations.